Interferon Alfa-n3

A to Z Drug Facts

 Action These small proteins bind to specific cell membranes and initiate complex sequences of intracellular events, including induction of certain enzymes that produce antiproliferative action against tumor cells and inhibit viral replication in virus-infected cells.

 Indications Treatment of condyloma acuminatum.

 Contraindications Known hypersensitivity to human interferon alpha proteins or any component of the product; anaphylactic sensitivity to mouse immunoglobulin, egg protein, or neomycin.

 Route/Dosage

Condyloma Acuminatum

ADULTS: Intralesional 250,000 IU (0.05 mL) (max recommended dose per treatment session) injected into base of each wart. Administer twice weekly for up to 8 wk.

 Interactions None well documented.

 Lab Test Interferences None well documented.

 Adverse Reactions

CV: Chest pain; hypotension; vasovagal response. CNS: Headache; depression; fatigue; malaise; dizziness; insomnia; sleepiness. DERM: Soreness at injection site; generalized pruritus; sweating. EENT: Blurred vision; ocular rotation pain; sinus drainage; sore mouth; stomatitis; mucositis. GI: Nausea; vomiting; dyspepsia; diarrhea; anorexia; dry mouth. HEMA: Altered hemoglobin levels, WBC, platelet count, GGT. HEPA: Altered AST, alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin. OTHER: Fever; chills; myalgias; arthralgia; back pain; flu-like syndrome.

 Precautions

Pregnancy: Category C. Lactation: Undetermined. Children: Safety and efficacy not established in children < 18 yr. Debilitating medical conditions: Fever and flu-like symptoms associated with drug may exacerbate medical conditions (eg, cardiovascular disease, pulmonary disease, diabetes mellitus with ketoacidosis, coagulation disorders, severe myelodepression, seizures). Product interchange: Interferon products are not interchangeable because of manufacturing processes, strength, and type.

 Administration/Storage

• Do not shake solution.
• Inject into base of each wart, preferably with 30-gauge needle.
• Store in refrigerator. Do not freeze.

 Assessment/Interventions

• Obtain patient history, including drug history and any allergies.
• Assess patient for side effects. If present, notify physician.
• Monitor hydration if patient experiences anorexia, nausea, or diarrhea. If vomiting and diarrhea occur frequently, increase patient's fluid intake to 2 to 3 L/day.
• Monitor results of laboratory tests.
• Assess patient for symptoms of infection because they may be masked by drug fever.
• If patient experiences adverse CNS symptoms (eg, LOC, mental status changes, dizziness, confusion), take safety precautions such as lowering bed, putting side rails up, and supervising ambulation.
• Discuss need for antiemetic with physician if patient develops nausea or vomiting.
• If flu-like symptoms occur, administer drug in evening, and administer acetaminophen as prescribed for fever and headache.

 Patient/Family Education

• Stress importance of returning for follow-up blood tests.
• Teach infection control measures, bleeding precautions, and energy conservation measures.
• Emphasize importance of maintaining well-hydrated state.
• Caution patient not to change brand of drug because dosages vary among different forms.
• Advise patient to take medication at bedtime if flu-like symptoms occur, and to use acetaminophen as needed.
• Instruct patient to report the following symptoms that may represent side effects: hives, swollen ankles, dyspnea, chest pain, noisy breathing.
• Caution patient to take safety precautions and not to perform activities that require mental alertness if decreased mental status or dizziness occur.

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Copyright © 2003 Facts and Comparisons
David S. Tatro
A to Z Drug Facts